Adelaide Women's & Children's Redevelopment – Mallee Ward

Family Focused

The Adelaide Women’s & Children’s Hospital redevelopment enhances patient care by addressing critical clinical and infrastructure needs. The upgrades prioritise patient-centred design, ensuring safe, high-quality services for children and families while supporting future hospital planning.

Studio STH and collaborating architects GHD transforms the Mallee Ward and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service Unit, creating a therapeutic environment with natural light, flexible high-dependency spaces, and an essential outdoor area—key to improving patient outcomes. The design fosters safety, privacy, and a sense of normalcy, integrating domestic-scale elements to provide a welcoming, non-clinical feel.

The Paediatric Emergency Department redevelopment optimises triage efficiency and patient experience, with improved assessment areas, dedicated mental health spaces, and multipurpose consultation rooms. These enhancements streamline care, reduce stress for young patients, and improve operational flow.

Developed through co-design workshops, the project incorporates insights from clinicians, patients, and families, ensuring a tailored approach to care delivery. Smart technologies, including patient-controlled access to rooms, enhance autonomy while maintaining security. The use of resilient materials, adaptable lighting, and sensory-friendly spaces supports healing and well-being.

Despite the complexities of working within an existing building, the project successfully balances functionality with an uplifting, calming atmosphere. The new spaces have received positive feedback from staff and patients, with key themes highlighting openness, tranquility, and comfort—critical factors in improving long-term health outcomes.